Plea deal reduces charges against Ashland woman

An Ashland woman originally charged with attempting to murder her ex-husband pleaded guilty to third-degree assault and first-degree burglary Thursday in Jackson County Circuit Court.

By sanne specht

An Ashland woman originally charged with attempting to murder her ex-husband pleaded guilty to third-degree assault and first-degree burglary Thursday in Jackson County Circuit Court.

Marilyn Alice Gale, 60, was sentenced by Judge Ray White to 90 days in jail and five years of supervised probation for the burglary charge. She was also given three years' supervised probation for the assault.

The terms of the plea agreement state Gale will surrender to custody immediately, but receive credit for time she spent in the Jackson County Jail after her May 2008 arrest.

White said Gale must comply with a list of special conditions including no contact with the victim, continuing with her mental health treatment and taking all prescribed medications. The judge warned Gale she could still serve three years in prison on the assault charge if she violates any of her probation conditions.

On May 1, 2008, Marilyn Gale broke into her ex-husband's home just after 2 a.m. and attacked him with a knife, according to Ashland police.

The victim was taken to Rogue Valley Medical Center, where he remained hospitalized for a few days before being released.

The victim did not attend Thursday's sentencing, but he had previously sent a letter to the court stating he wanted his ex-wife to get the help she needed.

"He did not think prison was the appropriate place for her to receive this help," White said.

Prior to the plea agreement, Gale was facing charges of attempted murder, first-degree assault and first-degree burglary. Originally set for $1 million, Gale's bail was reduced to $200,000. She met bail, was released and has been living with family in Long Beach, Calif.

Gale may apply to transfer her probation to California after she has completed her sentence in the Jackson County Jail, White said.